Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charquemont, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and Paris, Île-de-France
Charquemont is a small commune located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, known for its beautiful landscapes and laid-back ambiance. The region is also home to several charming villages and towns, each with unique history and culture. Paris, on the other hand, is the bustling metropolis of Île-de-France, known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums and art galleries, and fabulous food scene. A road trip from Charquemont to Paris promises a combination of stunning natural scenery and cultural experiences.
The halfway point between Charquemont and Paris is Semur en Auxois, 21, a significant stopover owing to its rich medieval history and scenic location. The town is situated on a hilltop overlooking River Armançon and is surrounded by picturesque countryside.
Top 5 Things to do on the Road Trip
- Visit the Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay
The Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay is a breathtaking Romanesque church located in the heart of the village. The church is renowned for its stunning architecture and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Visitors can admire the remarkable stone carvings, including medieval sculptures and intricate friezes. The church is also the starting point of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route in France.
Interesting fact: The Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine possesses a unique relic – a wooden statue of Saint Mary Magdalene that is believed to have been brought from Palestine by the crusaders.
- Explore the Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley
The Château de Chambord is a grand Renaissance-style palace located in the heart of the Loire Valley. The palace was built in the 16th century and boasts a striking mix of French and Italian architectural styles, including the famous double helix staircase. Visitors can tour the palace's reception rooms, admire the towering ceiling frescoes, and stroll around the extensive gardens and the surrounding forest.
Interesting fact: Leonardo da Vinci is believed to have contributed to the design of the Château de Chambord, particularly its iconic staircase.
- Discover the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture and a symbol of the country's grandeur and wealth during the 17th and 18th centuries. The palace was the seat of power for the French monarchy and has opulent interiors adorned with precious artworks, gilded furniture, and intricate tapestries. Visitors can explore the King's and Queen's apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the sprawling gardens.
Interesting fact: The Palace of Versailles has over 2,300 rooms, including 67 staircases and 352 fireplaces.
- Go wine-tasting in Burgundy
Burgundy is known for producing some of the world's best wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The region boasts countless vineyards and wine cellars, many of which offer guided tours and tastings. Visitors can learn about the wine-making process, sample different wines, and purchase bottles to take home.
Interesting fact: The winegrowers in Burgundy still use traditional, time-honored techniques, such as hand-picking and foot-treading, to produce their wines.
- Explore the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a must-see attraction. The tower was built in 1889 as part of the World Expo and has been visited by millions of people since then. Visitors can climb up to the top and enjoy stunning views of the city, dine at the tower's restaurants, or simply admire the tower's intricate latticework from the ground.
Interesting fact: The Eiffel Tower was originally intended to be a temporary structure and was almost dismantled after the World Expo ended.
Conclusion
The road trip from Charquemont to Paris promises a journey through some of France's most beautiful regions and a diverse array of experiences. From the historic villages of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté to the grand palaces of Paris, there's something for everyone. The trip usually takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the route and stops. Overall, it's a journey that offers a blend of natural beauty, culture, and history – an unforgettable experience for any traveler.